The Nest

NestApple's Real Estate Blog

Featuring real estate articles and information to help real estate buyers and sellers. The Nest features writings from Georges Benoliel and other real estate professionals. Georges is the Co-Founder of NestApple and has been working as an active real estate investor for over a decade.

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NYC real estate guides

Start with a complete guide, then go deeper with the articles inside it.

What is a Contract Rider in NYC Real Estate (2025)

A contract rider in a real estate deal in New York City? Does the rider take precedence over the main purchase contract? In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about contract riders for real estate transactions… Read More

How much are Real Estate Commissions in NYC? (2025)

In New York City, the typical real estate commission ranges from 5% to 6% of the sale price. This makes broker commissions the highest closing cost for sellers in the area. While commissions have generally declined in other parts of… Read More

Largest Cities in Ohio (2025)

Located in the Midwestern heartland of the United States, Ohio is one of the country’s great cultural centers. With a population of 11,785,935, Ohio is the seventh most populous state and the tenth most densely populated. Ohio also has several… Read More

How to Recast a Mortgage: Lower Payments, Same Rate

To recast a mortgage, pay a lump sum toward principal, usually $10,000 or more, and ask your lender to recalculate your monthly payment based on the smaller balance. Your rate and payoff date stay the same. Most lenders charge no… Read More

What Is Dual Agency? The Risks and New York’s Rules

Dual agency occurs when a real estate broker represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. New York allows it, but only with the informed written consent of both parties, because a dual agent can’t negotiate or… Read More

Should You Put Your House in a Trust? (2025)

Deciding whether to place your house in a trust largely depends on your individual circumstances. One of the primary benefits of putting your house in a trust is that it helps you avoid probate upon your death. This not only… Read More

Don’t Submit a Lowball Offer In NYC (2025)

Many home buyers in NYC are attracted to the idea of making a lowball offer to purchase a property below its market value. While this is an appealing fantasy, it lacks grounding in reality. NYC homeowners are unlikely to be… Read More

The Warmest Beaches in California (2025)

California boasts miles of stunning, golden coastline. From the palm-fringed beaches of Los Angeles to the rugged cliffside beaches of Northern California, the Pacific coastline offers breathtaking views. However, dipping your toes in the Pacific can be challenging at times… Read More

Difference between Listing Agent vs Selling Agent (2025)

A listing agent represents the seller and is responsible for listing and marketing the seller’s property for sale. A selling agent is the one who identifies and secures the buyer for the property. In the NYC real estate market, a… Read More

Managing Agent Responsibilities for NYC Condo & Co-op (2025)

Having a reliable and effective managing agent is essential for the smooth operation of mid-sized and large co-ops and condos in NYC. The responsibilities of building management include maintaining the building, monitoring regulatory compliance, procuring and managing insurance policies and… Read More

The Offer Form in NYC Real Estate (2025)

In New York, offers to purchase real estate come in various formats, depending on the brokerage firm. Additionally, it is pretty uncommon to see formal offer-to-purchase forms used, particularly in New York City. In practice, most offers are typically submitted… Read More

Famous Nicknames for NYC (2025)

New York City, affectionately known as “The Big Apple” and “Gotham,” has developed a vibrant identity over the years. As the most densely populated city in the United States, NYC serves as a hub for culture, finance, technology, and the… Read More

Richest Chicago Suburbs – NestApple Guide (2025)

Chicago is renowned for its rich history, diverse culinary scene, and iconic architecture. Surrounding the city are some of Illinois’s most luxurious suburbs. This list highlights the ten wealthiest suburbs around Chicago, showcasing some of the most exclusive communities, many… Read More

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Sacramento (2025)

Sacramento, California, faces significant safety challenges, with a staggering crime rate of 44 incidents per one thousand residents. Alarmingly, your chances of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in this city are about one in 23. If… Read More

What is a A Co-op Foreclosure? NestApple Guide (2025)

A co-op foreclosure occurs more quickly than a traditional foreclosure on a condo or house because it does not require court approval. Additionally, coop board approval is not needed for a co-op foreclosure, which can save several months. The Collateral… Read More